From the unique sunrise swim start off a ferry in Sandusky Bay to the electric downtown finish line on the newly renovated Columbus Avenue corridor, this race showcases the very best of what it means to have Lake Erie Love. It’s an event the Shores & Islands Ohio region rallies behind, and Sunday, July 19, 2026, marks the fifth year that the IRONMAN 70.3 will call Sandusky, Ohio home.
Athlete registration is still open for those looking to tackle the entire event, or if you want to participate in a relay team. Learn more about the race and registration process by clicking here.
The IRONMAN team members who work alongside our local committee often share how much they love returning to Sandusky. And of course, that enthusiasm is mutual. They point to our passionate volunteers, our supportive business community, and the incredible spectators who line the course to cheer on the athletes.
Athletes speak highly of the Ohio triathlon. Most recently, this race has been awarded several honors including:
- #2 in Overall Satisfaction in North America in 2024
- #5 Best Bike Course Overall in North America in 2025
- Top 5 Most Recommended Race by Athletes in 2024
- The only IRONMAN race with a swim start that involves jumping off a ferry boat
The success of this event can be contributed to strong partnerships. The collaboration between Shores & Islands Ohio, the City of Sandusky, our residents, and neighboring communities who ensure a safe and welcoming experience for everyone involved. First responders, city staff, volunteers, and community leaders all play an incredible role in making race day seamless and memorable.
A support system that is integral to the success of the IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio is its volunteers. Volunteer shifts begin as early as Friday, July 17th for Athlete Check In and grow throughout all aspects of the race including: the Athlete Food Tent, Aid Stations, Environmental assistance, the Finish Line, and even helping the team keep time. The sheer manpower it takes to cover this triathlon is mind-boggling, and that’s where you can help!
The IRONMAN Foundation supports communities through volunteerism and grant funding for charitable programs. Through the IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio event, that mission has helped generate nearly $60,000 in volunteer grant funding for local organizations from 2022-2025.
- Groups who are interested in signing up volunteers to receive grant opportunities can fill out the grant application here. Application questions can be directed to the Volunteer Director, Crystal Michel: im70.3ohio@ironmanvolunteers.com. Groups must sign up through Crystal to be a volunteer captain to take advantage of the grant opportunity.
Individuals who are interested in signing up for one or multiple shifts can click here to visit the Volunteer Local page and find the perfect shift.
Five years is an achievement worth celebrating. It reflects trust, shared commitment, and a community that shows up with pride. As athletes once again take to our streets and shoreline, we’re reminded why this partnership works so well. Sandusky doesn’t just host IRONMAN 70.3 — we embrace it.
Here’s to year five — and to many more finish lines on the shores of Lake Erie.
Click here to visit the IRONAMN 70.3 page on our website and stay up-to-date on this year’s race and all the exciting activities leading up to it.
